Predictors of lung cancer patients delay time in Serbia - a cross-sectional study

Aim: To determine predictors of patients delay time (PDT). Method: A cross-sectional study conducted in 2013 using structured questionnaire survey for data collection (947 pts) throughout Serbia. Predictors of PDT were determined based on 11 individual scales pertaining to patient delay. Regression models constructed used variables concerning diverse contextual and personal patient characteristics. Results: The time elapsed from the onset of symptoms to referring to a doctor was up to 1 month in 62.12%,but more than 3 months in 18.12%.Doctors were general practioners in 68.98%,chest physicians 19.94%, other 11%.Regular check ups ever, denied by 65.31%.Patients suspected of lung cancer in 28.54%,while 51.48% believed the symptoms would resolve spontaneously. Family member(s) with a history of malignant disease -28.41%. Getting an appointment with a doctor within 2 weeks(ws) - in 87.96%,within 1 month in 96.86%, but more than 3 months(ms) in 0.92%. Chest X-ray performed within 2ws in 88.58%,thoracic CT scan within 1 month- 71.05%,but 2-3ms and more- 6.5%. Tumor biopsy findings available within 2 ws in 59.31%,within 1 month 82.44%,1-2ms in 15.07% and more than 2ms 3.5%.The initial treatment decision was made: within 2ws of diagnosis in 64.29%,within 1 month 84.65%,1-2ms in 11.39% and more than 2ms 3.57%. Conclusion: Factors significantly correlated with longer PDT were distrust in the medical system, disregard of cancer signs and insufficient support from friends and family.